How I Make Quick Newsprint Sketchbooks
This is how I make small sketchbooks from 9x12 newsprint paper using a long-reach stapler. A simple DIY method for on-the-go drawing and creative freedom.
Recently, I was in the car with my husband and I got the sudden urge to sketch some of the foliage I saw on our drive. It occurred to me that I haven't been carrying anything to sketch on lately.
Usually I'll draw on Procreate on my iPad but to be real, nothing beats the tactile feel of paper.
I remembered how years ago in my drawing classes we used newsprint to practice on and how much I loved the feeling of pressing a pencil on newsprint.
It just so happened I had 9" x 12" newsprint tucked away in my studio and I had bought a special stapler to make zines a few months ago that never got to see the light of day (an abandoned project, ugh - but hey it's coming to life in this form!)
Why Newsprint?
In my case, because I just had it on hand hehe...and newsprint is more affordable than other papers, so it makes it real easy to use it all up. PLUS the "toothiness" and rawness of the paper is ideal for playing around freely with all sorts of pencil and pen marks.
How I Make My On-The-Go Sketchbooks
Supplies:
- 9x12 newsprint sheets
- Paper cutter
- Long-reach stapler (the real MVP)
- Bone Folder (Optional)
Step 1: Fold
I take 4 sheets of 9" x 12" newsprint and fold it in half horizontally. Then I fold it again in half to create a small uneven booklet that ends up around 5 x 6 inches. It’s not exact at all and it feels awkward to fold but, trust the process, its part of the charm. By the end it usually ends up being 4" x 5.5" final size.
Step 2: Trim
Then I trim all the edges except one side with my paper cutter so the pages align. Then I open it slightly and staple down the center fold.
Step 3: Final Trim + Decorate
After stapling, I trim all the edges again so the edges feel cleaner and even — even if the whole thing is technically imperfect. To decorate, I kept it simple and just put down a pretty sticker.
First Entry: Penguins on a Rainy Day
The first thing I drew in mine was two penguins standing together in the rain. It was inspired by getting through uncertain times with someone who fully understands you.
Why I Love This Method
- It takes 5 minutes
- Costs almost nothing if you already have newsprint paper, paper cutter and a long staple.
- You can make five at once.
- You can throw one in your bag without thinking twice.
If you want to make your own newsprint sketchbooks, I put together a simple supply list of the tools I use.
👉make your own newsprint sketchbook tools
(A corner of tools I actually use and enjoy.)
Some links on that list are affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share the supplies I genuinely use in my own journaling and creative play, I encourage you to shop around and find what works best for you.
